296 RIFLE AND SPEAR WITH THE RAJPOOTS. 



Although a relation is preferred, Hindoos are very jealous 

 of their right of choice being prejudiced. And whether the 

 Maharaja thought this was being interfered with, or from 

 some other cause, on his death-bed he named the younger 

 brother as his heir. This boy was then about sixteen years 

 old, and had run wild in his native village until he left it to 

 rule the State. However, every one speaks well of him, 

 and, with the help of an able tutor, he is working hard to fit 

 himself for the duties of his position. The poor elder 

 brother never got over the disappointment and is seriously 

 ill ; some say dying. 



